Quick answer: ʻAkoko (Chamaesyce celastroides) is native to 1 state. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 24 Oct 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Rocky coastal or dry forest |
| Bloom | Bloom Year-round |
| Height | 1-6 ft |
| Wildlife value | Native insects |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 24 Oct 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about ʻAkoko
Where is ʻAkoko native?
ʻAkoko (Chamaesyce celastroides) is native to Hawaii. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does ʻAkoko bloom?
ʻAkoko blooms Year-round. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does ʻAkoko need?
Light: Sun. Water: Dry. Soil: Rocky coastal or dry forest. Mature height: 1-6 ft.
Is ʻAkoko good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Native insects.
Is ʻAkoko deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
ʻAkoko is drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy ʻAkoko?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 24 Oct 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Chamaesyce celastroides by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with ʻAkoko.
- Florida hopbush Dodonaea viscosa
- Hinahina kū kahakai Heliotropium anomalum
- Koʻoloaʻula (red ʻilima) Abutilon menziesii
- Maʻo (Hawaiian cotton) Gossypium tomentosum
- Maʻo hau hele (Hawaiian yellow hibiscus) Hibiscus brackenridgei
- Naio Myoporum sandwicense
Also listed under
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